WEST History

Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. (WEST)

Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. (WEST) was developed in 1984 as a response to disproportionately high levels of unemployment among women and the difficulties experienced by women attempting to enter the workforce.

During the course of development, it became apparent that the most disadvantaged women, in terms of training and employment opportunities, were visible minorities. Because of those findings, a plan was implemented to create technical and life skills training program specific to the needs of visible minority women residing in Windsor-Essex. WEST, a non-profit corporation and registered charitable organization, is the realization of that initiative.

With funding from Human Resources Development Canada, Women’s Enterprise Skills Training of Windsor Inc. (WEST) opened its doors in February 1987, offering unique training opportunities for women from Windsor-Essex and around the globe. Through skills enhancement and volunteer placements, visible minority women have been prepared for entry to employment and have moved closer to achieving the success they desire.

WEST is a dynamic, community-based training organization, has been working to improve the employability of visible minority women in Windsor and Essex County since 1987.

WEST is committed to meeting the employment skills development needs of visible minority and newcomer women in Windsor and Essex County.

WEST’s programs and services address individual and group needs relating to enhancing employability and self-sufficiency.